Today, I had it in my mind. I said, Self, you know what? You deserve it, go get yourself a Louis Vuitton handbag.” I’m a hardworking woman. I slave for eight hours a day at a law publication as an advertising assistant (translation glorified secretary) and I save my money pretty well. Actually, that’s a lie, but it was a nice thought.

Ever since my freshman year at NU, I noticed these fashionable handbags on the arms of young women all around me. I’m from Providence, RI (don’t laugh) so only recently was I introduced to high profile designers. I wondered who was responsible for this brown leather material with the distinguishing print on it. The thing that was different with this handbag was the fact that people seemed to pair it with anything and that was OK. I see people sporting Louis with anything from sweats to form-fitting jeans. This bag was also paired with all colors of the rainbow. I thought part of being fashion conscious was matching. I guess when it’s designer, it goes with anything.

Back to my story.

I’m embarking on a mini vacation this week, so I decided I would finally invest in a Louie Vuitton accessory.

I went to Copley Mall and ventured into the uncharted territory that is the Louis Vuitton boutique, being sure to look as sophisticated as possible and not touch anything. I grabbed the attention of a saleswoman and pointed at the bag that I claimed as mine. I gently twirled it around in my hands and examined this precious item. I started to notice how small the bag was. Well, I guess I only need to carry my cellular phone and maybe some lipgloss. As I continued to twirl, I tried to secretly locate the price tag. When that approach did not work, I waited for my friend to ask for the price “How much is that,” she asked. “$185,” the saleswoman replied calmly as if she had just said $50 or so. She must not know I go to NU and have to pay $30,000+ a year. What ever happened to a student discount? I might be able to meet her request if they take the Husky Card. With a $185 price tag, I must have bought myself a new friend. Is it going to talk to me and help me with my problems? I nearly dropped the bag. I was expecting no more than $150. Obviously, I don’t know fahsion. I fought the urge to give her that half-crazy look that your mother gives you when you ask a dumb question. I carefully placed the bag down and walked out the store. I know I had no business being in the first place. I then walked over to Coach which was a little more my speed with a price of $128. All I know is my name is not Robin Leach, so I need to leave my champange wishes and caviar dreams right where they belong, in my dreams. The day I pay $185 for a handbag is not going to be anytime soon.